Let’s talk about diarrhoea and flatulence

The Faroe Islands hold the unfortunate world record of having the highest per capita number of intestinal disease sufferers.

This claim comes from the Faroese Colitis Crohn Association (CCF), which says that more than 1,000 people in the Faroes struggle with intestinal issues, and that the real figure is likely to be much higher.

“Symptoms such as diarrhoea, blood, pain, cramps and flatulence are not considered suitable topics of discussion around the dinner table,” the CCF writes in a press release.

“This leaves many intestinal disease sufferers suffering in silence, and many do not get around to seeking medical help.”

Breaking the silence

Hoping to breach this taboo, the CCF has produced three short video clips, collectively titled “Lat okkum tosa um tarmsjúkur” (“Let’s talk about intestinal diseases”).

“The videos may come across as inappropriate to some, but we feel it is important to create public awareness of this important issue and to encourage sufferers not to shy away from seeking medical help,” the press release goes on to say.

Intestinal disease sufferers often find themselves urgently needing to use a toilet. In addition to breaking a taboo, the CCF hopes its new campaign will serve as a reminder to improve toilet access in public spaces.

Read the Faroese version of this article here.

More Faroese News in English.